Many readers will remember one of the most unforgettable rescue stories in U.S. history. In October 1987, an 18-month-old girl named Jessica McClure Morales disappeared while playing with other children in her aunt’s backyard in Midland, Texas.
What began as a terrifying missing-child emergency soon turned into a national breaking news event when family members realized Jessica had fallen 22 feet into a narrow well pipe that was believed to be sealed.
A Mother’s Fear and a Community’s Response
Jessica’s mother, Cissy McClure, recalled the panic of those first moments, explaining that she immediately called for help. Emergency responders arrived within minutes, but the uncertainty felt endless.
Jessica was alive—but trapped deep underground, without food or water. As word spread, a massive round-the-clock rescue operation began. Firefighters, police officers, engineers, drilling experts, and volunteers worked continuously for nearly 60 hours to reach the toddler.
A Rescue That United the Nation
The first officer on the scene, Bobbie Jo Hall, later described calling down into the pipe repeatedly before finally hearing a faint cry. Authorities were initially unsure how deep Jessica was until they lowered a flashlight attached to measuring tape into the narrow opening.
Throughout the rescue, responders spoke to Jessica to keep her calm. Detective Andy Glasscock recalled that she could often be heard crying or making noises—and when encouraged, she even sang “Winnie-the-Pooh.”
The final moments of the rescue were broadcast live across the country. When Jessica was finally pulled to safety on October 16, 1987, millions of viewers watched in relief. The child instantly became known nationwide as “Baby Jessica.”
Life After a World-Famous Rescue
Nearly four decades later, Jessica says those two and a half days shaped much of her life. In a 2017 interview, she reflected that while the experience led to teasing at times, most people view it as a miracle.
She credits her survival to faith and the collective effort of strangers who refused to give up.
Today, Jessica lives a quiet life in rural Texas with her husband Danny, whom she married in 2006. Interestingly, Danny remembers watching the rescue unfold on television as a 13-year-old during a football game—long before he knew he would one day marry the child at the center of the story.
Family, Work, and a Lasting Nickname
Jessica and Danny share two children, Simon and Sheyenne, and are now grandparents to Emiliano and Nolan. She says the nickname “Baby Jessica” still follows her, often surprising people when they realize who she is.
She currently works in Midland, Texas, including roles connected to education and community support, and lives a largely private life focused on family.
When her daughter was in elementary school, Jessica recalled that a teacher once showed the class a video about the rescue—only later realizing her student’s mother was the child in the footage.
Support That Made a Difference
After the rescue, people from around the world donated to a trust fund totaling approximately $1.2 million to help support Jessica’s future. Although a significant portion was lost during the 2008 financial crisis, the remaining funds helped her family purchase a home.
Jessica has shared that she does not personally remember the rescue itself. She first learned the full details at age four after watching a reenactment on television.
Health Challenges and Recovery
As a result of the accident, Jessica underwent 15 surgeries during childhood. Her right foot required reconstruction, and she has a small scar on her head. Despite these challenges, she has gone on to live a full and active life.
An Enduring Story of Hope
Jessica McClure’s survival remains one of the most powerful human-interest stories ever told—an example of resilience, teamwork, and compassion during a crisis.
Nearly 38 years later, her story continues to inspire, reminding people of what can happen when communities come together and refuse to give up.
We wish Jessica and her family continued health and happiness as she moves forward with the life she nearly lost—but ultimately reclaimed.